COPD

COPD is a long-term lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe properly. It stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

COPD is usually caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances, such as smoking, and to a lesser extent air pollution or chemicals.

With COPD, the airways and lungs are damaged, making it difficult to breathe air in and out.

People with COPD may experience coughing, shortness of breath, mucus production and fatigue.

Smoking is the biggest cause of COPD. Other factors may include air pollution, dust and chemicals.

As with asthma, people with COPD may use medications, such as inhalers, to relieve their symptoms.

People with COPD need to make healthy choices, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly and following a healthy diet.

Some people with COPD learn breathing exercises to strengthen their respiratory muscles and improve their breathing. People with severe cases of COPD may require oxygen therapy.